Astros, players prepare for arbitration battles

It’s a big week for the Astros and several players, who will exchange their requests for 2011 salaries tomorrow. Zachary Levine articulately explained the arbitration process and which players are involved over the weekend.

Today, I’ll take a stab at expected salaries, without the advantage of knowing the ranges the team and players will exchange. Yes, that is somewhat akin to working without a net, but we’ll see how close my numbers are to the final outcome. Oh, and here’s your invitation to play along.

This arbitration figure-exhange process maybe a moot point as Z pointed out, since the Astros have already eliminated five players from the process through settlement, release or trade. That leaves only the Big 5 with whom to reach an agreement. Honestly, it’s quite possible none of these will go to the arbitration panel.

Wandy Rodriguez.

Third year arbitration eligible.

Last year’s salary: $5 million.

The two sides may exchange numbers on Tuesday, but if he isn’t traded, don’t be surprised to see Wandy sign a long-term extension in the neighborhood of 3 years, $25-$28 million. If they do exchange numbers before an agreement, look for the Astros to be around $7 million and Wandy somewhere between $8.5 and $9 million.

But keep an eye out: If the sides can’t strike a long-term deal and it gets near arbitration next month, don’t be surprised to see Wandy’s name become even more prominent in trade speculation.

Hunter Pence.

Second year arbitration eligible.

Last year’s salary: $3.5 million.

Hunter shouldn’t see an arb panel as the sides should/will agree on a one-year deal in the neighborhood of $5.5-$6 million. Pence is a Type A free agent according to the Elias rankings, where only six NL outfielders rank higher.

Michael Bourn.

Second year arbitration eligible.

Last year’s salary: $2.4 million.

It’s hard to see this one going to arb either, but the two sides may exchange numbers just to get a feel for where they are. Exchanges: Astros $3.75 million, Bourn $5 million, settling in around the mid-range for 2011.

Jeff Keppinger.

Second year arbitration eligible.

Last year’s salary: $1.15 million.

This one could be interesting. Keppinger could end up doubling his salary, in a one-year settlement. Wouldn’t be surprised to see him ask for $3 million. As a bench player now (at least according to the prospective lineup card), a two-year deal for $3-$3.5 million might be attainable. Or maybe one year with an option.

Clint Barmes.

Third year arbitration eligible.

Last year’s salary: $3.325 million.

The Astros may be better off with a two-or-three year deal since he’s likely to make close to $5 million in arbitration. Believe it or not, he is not even aType B player in the Elias ranking, listed three spots below Keppinger.